AutoBlack Podcast

Gentrification gets all the headlines—but is it really the biggest threat to our communities?In this episode, the five of us, architects, developers and urban designers dive into the hidden forces shaping our cities and our communities: from rapid redevelopment to decades of quiet decay. We unpack how displacement happens both loudly and silently, why policies like redlining still matter, and what’s really at stake for culture, identity, and equity.Featuring insights on cities like Baltimore and Boston, this conversation challenges assumptions and asks a bigger question: can growth be done right?If you care about cities, community, and the future of urban life—this one’s for you.Listen now and join us on the stoop for this engaging conversation.

Have we traded real connection for endless scrolling?In this episode, we dive into the uncomfortable question: are digital spaces bringing us closer together—or quietly pulling us apart? From algorithm-driven feeds to the slow disappearance of in-person hangouts, we unpack how the way we connect is changing—and what it’s costing us.But it’s not all doom and gloom. We also explore how to reclaim meaningful connection and create spaces—online and offline—that actually bring people together.If you’ve ever felt more “connected” than ever… yet somehow more alone, this conversation is for you. Join us on the stoop.

Join us on the stoop as we unpack our unforgettable experience at the 2025 NOMA Conference in Kansas City!In this episode, Rob, Jamar and Whitni dive into the cutting-edge architectural innovations, powerful cultural exchanges, and the rich Black history that shaped this year’s conference.From standout keynotes and inspiring sessions to the moments of community that left a lasting impact, we’re sharing the stories, lessons, and reflections you won’t want to miss.Whether you're an architect, creative, student, or simply curious about the future of design and Black excellence in the field—this episode is for you.

Welcome to The Pin Up! — a fresh episode of AutoBlack where hosts Rob, Jamar, and Perla bring their boldest ideas to the table and battle for the ultimate co-sign. This week, the crew dives into everything from the concept of an “American Rumspringer” to the evolving clash between massive stadiums and rising e-sports venues.With humor, insight, and unfiltered takes, they unpack how large-scale architecture impacts community, and how proximity can break down barriers in unexpected ways. Tune in for a thought-provoking, laughter-filled conversation that challenges norms and celebrates diverse perspectives.#AutoBlackPodcast #CultureAndSociety #EvolvingSpaces

In this episode of Autoblack, the crew is back on the stoop reflecting on what the profession gave them—and what it never could. We unpack the friction between identity and legitimacy, practice and purpose, and whether real impact comes from working within the system or breaking beyond it. So pull up and join the stoop. AutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of Autoblack, the crew is back on the stoop continuing the discussion of the legacy and power of historical black spaces that are rooted in culture identity and power. So pull up and join the crew. AutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of Autoblack, the crew is back on the stoop with a freestyle discussing the legacy and power of historical black spaces that are rooted in culture identity and power. So pull up and join the crew. AutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of Autoblack, the crew is back on the stoop with a freestyle discussion based on Toni Morrison's book "Beloved". So pull up and join the crew. AutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of Autoblack, the crew is back on the stoop with a freestyle discussion based on Dr. King's last memoir "Where Do We Go From Here: Community or Chaos". So pull up and join the crew. AutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of Autoblack, the crew is back on the stoop discussing the recent change to many DEI policies, what are the implications, and how we should respond. So pull up and join the discussionAutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of Autoblack, the crew is back on the stoop discussing Kamala Harris rise to the top of the presidential ticket. So pull up and join the discussion. AutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of AutoBlack, the crew is back on the stoop discussing Tiny Homes and should black folks consider them as real solutions to home ownership. So pull up and join the discussion. AutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠ AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠⁠⁠ Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of AutoBlack, the crew is continuing the discussion of NIMBY'ism in a part II recap. So pull up and join the discussion. AutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠⁠ AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠⁠ Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of AutoBlack, the crew is talking about the NIMBY'ism (Not in My Backyard). What are the politics that define this movement and who benefits from this ideology. So pull up and join the discussion. AutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠ AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠ Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of AutoBlack, the crew is talking about artificial intelligence and its potential impact on the design community. So pull up and join the discussion. AutoBlack IG: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠⁠ AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠⁠ Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of AutoBlack, the crew is talking about Black Panther and the Afrofuturistic design that inspired Wakanda. So pull up and join the discussion. AutoBlack IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/⁠ AutoBlack Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow⁠ Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of AutoBlack, the crew is talking about Hip Hop Architecture as a means to produce architecture that is recognizable black. Is hip hop a legitimate medium to filter architecture that is for us, by us? So pull up and join the discussion. AutoBlack IG: https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/ AutoBlack Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow Music By: Fantom Beats

In this episode of AutoBlack, the crew is talking about the identity of blackness. What is black, who is black, and how we see ourselves as black (or not) architects. So pull up and join the discussion. AutoBlack IG: https://www.instagram.com/autoblack_podcast/ AutoBlack Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1fZ1A5fuoO2LTOlZWSXVow Music By: Fantom Beats

Join five black designers on the "stoop" as they discuss blackness in architecture and design in the context of the world around them. Despite various upbringings, cultures, and traditions, they have one thing in common: they are automatically, unapologetically, and authentically black. AutoBlack.